There are times when selling a home that staging is critical to helping make the sale and to get top dollar; however, there are times not to stage. Selling a home is all about spending money in smart efficient ways to draw the buyer’s that you seek. I know what you must be thinking, why would a stager encourage a seller not to stage. Let me explain.

I am a stager, but I am also a real estate broker. This gives me a very unique perspective because helping my real estate clients determine what kind of home sale they are presenting to buyer us key to the success of their listing and drives what, as well as, how much they are going to spend money on.

I have a friend that is also a real estate client preparing for the sale of her home. This home is in a small subdivision close to Uptown Charlotte. The price point for this home will be around $150,000. It has some repairs that need to be done, cleaning out, and cleaning up. There is also outdated finishes and fixtures including the dreaded popcorn ceilings. We decided together that staging is not a good use of her money. We know that we will have to price with a less than appealing palate.

In a situation like this, there is no purpose in trying to hide these with furniture and rugs. This is the time to put it out there As-Is. This is the time to reach out to investors and first time home buyers. I find it is best with a home that needs updating and is a good investment property to leave it a blank canvas.
Staging a home to hide or distract is not a good use of staging. Staging should always be used to enhance.

As always… I would love to hear your stories and thoughts.